I just inherited an enormous stash of fabric from a neighbor - it dates back to the 60's. It would fill about 10 of those 30 gal storage tubs.

It is full of stuff...lots of wools, jersey knits, searsucker ginham...

In any case I want to make my four year old a winter coat out of some of the corduroy. I have at least 5 yards in a bright red. Has anyone done this? I also have some 300 polartec fleece I plan on lining it with to make it warm enough.

I am trying to figure out a good pattern to use, and if it is possible to end up with something machine washable.

I've been thinking a lot about this lately. I treasure the things that had that kind of thought and effort go into them so much more.

I also find myself thinking much more about the recipient when I make something rather than just purchase something ready made. This is the whole point of gift giving for me. It is what I am trying to teach my children, despite the din of commercials.

I decided to try my hand at a craft-along this year to help keep my momentum gong. I'm calling it Handmade Holiday Craft Along, with the idea being you give something handmade to someone for the holidays, the more the better. My hope is folks will be willing to share ideas and keep everyone motivated.

Hopefully it will help me keep focused on what gift giving is really about.